Indian Works of Art

Works from the Indian subcontinent include pieces from what is now India and Pakistan associated with the Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and other religions.

Collectable categories include items made during the colonial period when pieces were also made to appeal to Western taste; Indian watercolours (miniatures); jewellery decorated with enamels and set with rubies, emeralds and other gems; and hardstones, especially jade, carved into intricate handles for edged weapons or receptacles.

The biannual series of Islamic and Indian art auctions held in April and October offers a wide range of art and artefacts celebrating the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Middle East and the subcontinent. This year’s ‘Islamic Week’, running from October 22-26, includes sales from five auction houses, highlights of which are pictured below.

Cirencester saleroom Moore Allen & Innocent (20% buyer’s premium) enjoyed a taste of India’s fast-growing art market when three pictures by the Indian folk artist Jamini Roy (1887-1972) were scooped up for a total of £24,500.

This 17th century Indian painting attributed to one of the finest artists of the Mughal court was recently discovered in a private collection in Suffolk. Sworders will offer it for sale in their December 5 Country House Sale with an estimate of £10,000-15,000.

Kensington Church Street dealer Butchoff Antiques hosted an exhibition of Indian artworks to celebrate the UK India Year of Culture, which was launched by The British Council and the Indian High Commission earlier this year.